International distributor Biesterfeld is to receive additional distribution mandates for BASF's Elastollan Thermoplastic Polyurethane Elastomers. With effect from 1 April 2025, Biesterfeld will exclusively handle the distribution of these materials in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and the Baltic States. As a result, Biesterfeld now holds distribution rights for the whole of the EMEA region with the exception of the UK and Ireland.
One of the key characteristics of Elastollan Thermoplastic Polyurethane Elastomers is their outstanding mechanical properties. They offer excellent wear, abrasion and tear resistance and tensile strength. The materials also have outstanding resistance to oils, greases, oxygen and ozone, very high flexibility when cold, and outstanding cushioning ability. The varied portfolio in this product family includes a wide range of ester- and ether-based TPUs as well as light-resistant aliphatic and transparent grades with different degrees of hardness, from Shore 45 A to 83 D. The range also includes TPU-based additives and masterbatches as well as stiffer glass fibre-reinforced and flame-resistant grades.
The properties of the materials are as varied as the possible applications: Elastollan® can be extruded to form tubing, cable sheathing, belts, films and profiles, and also blow-moulded or injection-moulded. The polymers are therefore used in sectors such as mobility, wire & cable, construction, industry, household appliances, sports equipment as well as the textile and shoe industry.
"For decades, the versatility of the Elastollan product family has been helping our customers to turn innovative ideas into reality and to develop high-performance applications," says Martin Rathke, Global Business Director Engineered Polymers at Biesterfeld. "We are proud of the confidence BASF has shown in us, and our teams in the relevant countries are excited to be able to offer these materials to our customers."
